System and method of processing cutting layout and example switching circuit

ABSTRACT

A method of processing a gate electrode cutting (CUT) layout usable for fabricating an integrated circuit (IC) is disclosed. The method includes determining if a first CUT layout pattern and a second CUT layout pattern are in compliance with a predetermined spatial resolution requirement. If the first CUT layout pattern and the second CUT layout pattern are not in compliance with the predetermined spatial resolution requirement, a merged CUT layout pattern is generated based on the first CUT layout pattern, the second CUT layout pattern, and a stitching layout pattern, and a remedial connecting layout pattern is added to a conductive layer layout. The stitching layout pattern corresponds to a carved-out portion of a third gate electrode structure. The remedial connecting layout pattern corresponds to fabricating a conductive feature electrically connecting two portions of the third gate electrode structure that are separated by the corresponding carved-out portion.

BACKGROUND

An integrated circuit (IC) is fabricated according to a set of layouts usable to form corresponding masks for selectively forming or removing various layers of features, such as active regions, gate electrodes, various layers of isolation structures, and/or various layers of conductive structures. Many fabrication processes are available to increase the spatial resolution of various layers of features and thus allow layout patterns to have a finer spatial resolution requirement in a corresponding layout. Some approaches usable for increasing the spatial resolution include using one or more fabrication processes such as ultraviolet lithography, extreme ultraviolet lithography, electron-beam lithography, and/or multiple-patterning. However, in many applications, a fabrication process offering a finer spatial resolution often comes with a higher cost, lower yield, and/or longer processing time. Having every layer of features of an IC fabricated by processes offering the same spatial resolution is not always economically feasible.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is noted that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.

FIG. 1A is a layout diagram of a portion of a circuit in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 1B is a layout diagram of a portion of another circuit in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 2A-2B are layout diagrams of portions of a circuit in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 2C-2D are layout diagrams of portions of another circuit in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 3A-3G are diagrams of example stitching layout patterns in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 4A-4B are layout diagrams of portions of a circuit in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 4C-4D are layout diagrams of portions of another circuit in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method of processing a gate electrode cutting (CUT) layout in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an integrated circuit designing system in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a switching circuit in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a layout diagram of a portion of an example layout design of the switching circuit of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a resulting switching circuit fabricated based the layout design of FIG. 8 in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 10-14 are layout diagrams of portions of another example layout designs of the switching circuit of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of the invention. Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. For example, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed between the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed.

Further, spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. The spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. The apparatus may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may likewise be interpreted accordingly.

In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a gate electrode layout has a finer spatial resolution than a corresponding gate electrode cutting layout. By merging two gate electrode cutting layout patterns that are not spaced apart in compliance with the spatial resolution requirement of the gate electrode cutting layout and adding a remedial connecting layout pattern to a corresponding conductive layer for reestablishing an electrical connection interrupted as a result of the inclusion of the merged gate electrode cutting layout pattern, the violation of the spatial resolution requirement of the gate electrode cutting layout is resolved. In some embodiments, the system and method disclosed in the present application are applicable to cutting layout usable in conjunction with conductive features other than gate electrodes.

FIGS. 1A-4D are usable to illustrate one or more non-compliance scenarios and corresponding remedial measures. A systematic approach to implement various remedial measures explained in conjunction with FIGS. 1A-4D will be further illustrated in conjunction with the flow chart of FIG. 5. FIG. 6 further depicts a system usable to perform the method of FIG. 5.

FIG. 1A is a layout diagram 100A of a portion of a circuit in accordance with some embodiments. Layout diagram 100A includes a plurality of gate electrode layout patterns 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 and two gate electrode cutting (CUT) layout patterns 122 and 124. In some embodiments, gate electrode layout patterns 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 are part of a gate electrode layout, and CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 are part of a CUT layout. Other layout patterns and other layout usable to fabricate the circuit are omitted.

Gate electrode layout patterns 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 are usable to fabricate gate electrode structures. The gate electrode structures corresponding to gate electrode layout patterns 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 extend along a first direction Y and have a predetermined spatial resolution along a second direction X. In some embodiments, the gate electrode structures corresponding to gate electrode layout patterns 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 are fabricated using a multiple patterning technology or other suitable processes offering the predetermined spatial resolution. In some embodiments, the gate electrode structures corresponding to gate electrode layout patterns 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 are polysilicon structures. In some embodiments, the polysilicon structures corresponding to gate electrode layout patterns 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 are further replaced by metallic materials to become metallic gate electrodes.

CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 are aligned along the X direction. CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 correspond to carved-out portions (e.g., regions 104 a and 108 a) of the gate electrode structures fabricated according to gate electrode layout patterns 104 and 108. In some embodiments, the CUT layout is usable in conjunction with one or more processes that do not offer as fine spatial resolution as the one or more processes for fabricating the gate electrode structures. As a result, the CUT layout has a predetermined spatial resolution requirement, and the spatial resolution of the gate electrode structures is finer than the spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout in FIG. 1A.

In FIG. 1A, a minimum distance D₁ between CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 is less than a predetermined threshold distance. Therefore, CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 are too close to be in compliance with the spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout. In some embodiments, CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 are too close to be implemented using a single mask. Further modification of the CUT layout in order to resolve the non-compliance of CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 will be illustrated in conjunction with one or more of the following Figures.

FIG. 1B is a layout diagram 100B of a portion of another circuit in accordance with some embodiments. Components in FIG. 1B that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 1A are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is thus omitted.

Layout diagram 100B includes a plurality of gate electrode layout patterns 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 and two CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 corresponding to CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, gate electrode layout patterns 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 are part of a gate electrode layout, and CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 are part of a CUT layout. Other layout patterns and other layout are usable to fabricate the circuit are omitted.

Compared with layout diagram 100A, CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 are not aligned along the X direction, i.e., they correspond to different y-coordinates. CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 correspond to carved-out portions (e.g., regions 104 b and 108 b) of the gate electrode structures fabricated according to gate electrode layout patterns 104 and 108. In some embodiments, the spatial resolution of the gate electrode structures is finer than the spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout in FIG. 1B.

In FIG. 1B, a minimum distance D₂ between CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 is less than a predetermined threshold distance. Therefore, CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 are too close to be in compliance with the spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout. Further modification of the CUT layout in order to resolve the non-compliance of CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 will be illustrated in conjunction with one or more of the following Figures.

FIG. 2A is a layout diagram 200A of a portion of a circuit in accordance with some embodiments. Layout diagram 200A depicts an example approach to modify the CUT layout in order to resolve the non-compliance of CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 in FIG. 1A. Components in FIG. 2A that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 1A are given the same reference numbers, and a detailed description thereof is thus omitted.

In FIG. 2A, a stitching layout pattern 202 is introduced to connect CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 into a merged CUT layout pattern 204. Merged CUT layout pattern 204 is included in the CUT layout in place of CUT layout patterns 122 and 124. Merged CUT layout pattern 204 also makes it possible to avoid separating two layout patterns by a distance D₁ that is smaller than the spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout. Thus, the inclusion of merged CUT layout pattern 204 makes it possible to resolve the non-compliance of CUT layout patterns 122 and 124. Stitching layout pattern 202 has an I shape extending along the direction X. In some embodiments, stitching layout pattern 202 has a shape other than the I shape extending along the direction X.

Stitching layout pattern 202 further corresponds to a carved-out portion (e.g., region 106 a) of the gate electrode structure fabricated according to gate electrode layout pattern 106. Carved-out region 106 a is thus aligned with carved-out regions 104 a and 108 a along direction X. The gate electrode structure fabricated according to gate electrode layout pattern 106 is thus divided into two portions (corresponding to regions 106 b and 106 c) separated by the carved-out portion corresponding to region 106 a. However, compared with the original layout as depicted in FIG. 1A, the two portions (corresponding to regions 106 b and 106 c) of the gate electrode fabricated according to layout pattern 106 are meant to be electrically connected.

FIG. 2B is a layout diagram 200B of a portion of the circuit of FIG. 2A in accordance with some embodiments. Layout diagram 200B depicts an example approach to further modify a conductive layer layout to reestablish the electrical connections of one or more gate electrodes that are interrupted by the inclusion of stitching layout pattern 202. Components in FIG. 2B that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 2A are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is thus omitted.

Layout diagram 200B depicts that a remedial connecting layout pattern 206 is added to a conductive layer layout usable for fabricating the IC. Remedial connecting layout pattern 206 is usable to fabricate a conductive feature electrically connecting two portions (corresponding to regions 106 b and 106 c) of the gate electrode structure fabricated according to layout pattern 106. Remedial connecting layout pattern 206 has an I shape extending along the direction Y and partially overlaps the regions 106 b and 106 c of gate electrode layout pattern 106. In some embodiments, remedial connecting layout pattern 206 has a shape other than the I shape extending along the direction Y.

FIG. 2C is a layout diagram 200C of a portion of a circuit in accordance with some embodiments. Layout diagram 200C depicts an example approach to modify the CUT layout in order to resolve the non-compliance of CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 in FIG. 1B. Components in FIG. 2C that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 1B are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is thus omitted.

In FIG. 2C, a stitching layout pattern 212 is introduced to connect CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 into a merged CUT layout pattern 214. Merged CUT layout pattern 214 is included in the CUT layout in place of CUT layout patterns 132 and 134. Merged CUT layout pattern 214 also makes it possible to avoid separating two layout patterns with a distance D₂ that is smaller than the spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout. Thus, the inclusion of merged CUT layout pattern 214 makes it possible to resolve the non-compliance of CUT layout patterns 132 and 134. Stitching layout pattern 212 has an L shape including one leg extending along the direction X and another leg extending along the direction Y. In some embodiments, stitching layout pattern 212 has a shape other than the L shape depicted in FIG. 2C.

Stitching layout pattern 212 further corresponds to a carved-out portion (e.g., region 106 a′) of the gate electrode structure fabricated according to gate electrode layout pattern 106. Carved-out region 106 a′ is thus aligned with carved-out region 104 b but not carved-out region 108 b along direction X. The gate electrode structure fabricated according to gate electrode layout pattern 106 includes two portions (corresponding to regions 106 b′ and 106 c′) separated by the carved-out portion corresponding to region 106 a′. However, compared with the original layout as depicted in FIG. 1B, the two portions (corresponding to regions 106 b′ and 106 c′) of the gate electrode fabricated according to layout pattern 106 are meant to be electrically connected.

FIG. 2D is a layout diagram 200D of a portion of the circuit of FIG. 2C in accordance with some embodiments. Layout diagram 200D depicts an example approach to modify a conductive layer layout to reestablish the electrical connection of one or more gate electrodes that are interrupted by the inclusion of stitching layout pattern 212. Components in FIG. 2D that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 2C are given the same reference numbers, and a detailed description thereof is thus omitted.

Layout diagram 200D depicts that a remedial connecting layout pattern 216 is added to a conductive layer layout usable for fabricating the IC. Remedial connecting layout pattern 216 is usable to fabricate a conductive feature electrically connecting two portions (corresponding to regions 106 b′ and 106 c′) of the gate electrode structure fabricated according to layout pattern 106. Remedial connecting layout pattern 216 has an I shape extending along the direction Y and partially overlaps the regions 106 b′ and 106 c′ of gate electrode layout pattern 106. In some embodiments, remedial connecting layout pattern 216 has a shape other than the I shape extending along the direction Y.

FIGS. 3A-3G are diagrams of example stitching layout patterns in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 3A depicts a stitching layout pattern 312 that has an I shape extending along the X direction. FIG. 3B depicts a stitching layout pattern 314 that has an I shape extending along the Y direction. FIG. 3C depicts a stitching layout pattern 316 that has an L shape with a first leg 316 a extending along the X direction and a second leg 316 b extending along the Y direction. FIG. 3D depicts a stitching layout pattern 318 that has a Z shape with a central portion 318 a extending along the X direction and a first leg 318 b and a second leg 318 c at corresponding ends of central portion 318 a and extending along the Y direction.

FIG. 3E depicts a stitching layout pattern 322 that has a slanted I shape. Stitching layout pattern 322 includes a central portion 322 a extending along a direction having a predetermined angle θ to the Y direction. Stitching layout pattern 322 further includes two contact portions 322 b and 322 c corresponding to conductive structures for connecting two different gate structures or conductive structures that extend along the Y direction. FIG. 3F depicts a stitching layout pattern 324 that has a J shape with a central portion 324 a extending along the Y direction and a first leg 324 b and a second leg 324 c at corresponding ends of central portion 324 a and extending along the X direction. Legs 324 b and 324 c include contact portions 324 d and 324 e corresponding to conductive structures for connecting two different gate structures or conductive structures that extend along the Y direction.

FIG. 3G depicts a stitching layout pattern 326 that has a slanted I shape. Stitching layout pattern 326 includes a central portion 326 a extending along a direction having a predetermined angle θ′ to the Y direction. Stitching layout pattern 326 further includes two contact portions 326 b and 326 c corresponding to conductive structures for connecting two different gate structures or conductive structures that extend along the Y direction. Compared with stitching layout pattern 322 in FIG. 3E, central portion 326 a and contact portions 326 b and 326 c are merged as a single convex polygon.

In some embodiments, a stitching layout pattern has a shape of a graphic combination of one or more of stitching layout patterns 312, 314, 316, 318, 322, 324, and 326. In some embodiments, a stitching layout pattern is a mirrored image of stitching layout patterns 312, 314, 316, 318, 322, 324, and 326. In some embodiments, a stitching layout pattern corresponds to stitching layout patterns 312, 314, 316, 318, 322, 324, and 326, rotated by a predetermined angle.

FIG. 4A is a layout diagram 400A of a portion of a circuit in accordance with some embodiments. Components in FIG. 4A that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 1A are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is thus omitted.

Compared with layout diagram 100A, the conductive layer layout where the remedial connecting layout pattern 206 would be included already has layout patterns 402 and 404. Layout pattern 402 corresponds to forming a conductive structure connecting a portion of the gate electrode corresponding to layout pattern 108 and a first portion (corresponding to region 106 b in FIG. 2B) of the gate electrode corresponding to layout pattern 106. Layout pattern 404 corresponds to forming another conductive structure connecting a portion of the gate electrode corresponding to layout pattern 104 and a second portion (corresponding to region 106 c in FIG. 2B) of the gate electrode corresponding to layout pattern 106. An I shape layout pattern 406 is generated as a tentative remedial connecting layout pattern corresponding to remedial connecting layout pattern 206. However, a minimum distance D₃ between tentative remedial connecting layout pattern 406 and layout pattern 402 and a minimum distance D₄ between tentative remedial connecting layout pattern 406 and layout pattern 404 are not in compliance with a spatial resolution requirement of the conductive layer layout.

FIG. 4B is a layout diagram 400B of a portion of the circuit of FIG. 4A in accordance with some embodiments. Layout diagram 400B depicts an example approach to further modify the conductive layer layout to resolve the non-compliance of layout patterns of the conductive layer layout as a result of introducing tentative remedial connecting layout pattern 406. Components in FIG. 4B that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 4A are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is thus omitted. In FIG. 4B, a revised remedial connecting layout pattern 412 is generated by merging tentative remedial connecting pattern 406 and layout patterns 402 and 404. Revised remedial connecting layout pattern 412 makes it possible to avoid gaps corresponding to distance D₃ and distance D₄, and thus makes it possible to resolve the non-compliance of the spatial resolution requirement of the conductive layer layout.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4B, remedial connecting layout pattern 412 has a Z shape as illustrated in conjunction with FIG. 3D. In some embodiments, remedial connecting layout pattern 412 is replaced with a connecting layout pattern having a slanted I shape as illustrated in conjunction with FIG. 3E or FIG. 3G, or a J shape as illustrated in conjunction with FIG. 3F.

FIG. 4C is a layout diagram 400C of a portion of another circuit in accordance with some embodiments. Components in FIG. 4C that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 4A are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is thus omitted.

Compared with layout diagram 400A, the conductive layer layout where the remedial connecting layout pattern 206 would be included already has layout patterns 408 and 404, and layout pattern 408 does not electrically connect the gate electrode corresponding to layout pattern 108 and the gate electrode corresponding to layout pattern 106. Moreover, a distance D₅ between tentative remedial connecting layout pattern 406 and layout pattern 408 is not in compliance with a spatial resolution requirement of the conductive layer layout.

FIG. 4D is a layout diagram 400D of a portion of the circuit of FIG. 4C in accordance with some embodiments. Layout diagram 400D depicts an example approach to further modify the conductive layer layout to resolve the non-compliance of layout patterns of the conductive layer layout as a result of introducing tentative remedial connecting layout pattern 406. Components in FIG. 4D that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 4C are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is thus omitted.

In FIG. 4D, a revised remedial connecting layout pattern 414 is generated by merging tentative remedial connecting layout pattern 406 and layout pattern 404 in a manner similar to that illustrated in conjunction with FIG. 4B. Layout pattern 408 is shifted further away from the region corresponding to tentative remedial connecting layout pattern 406 to become layout pattern 416. Also, to further adjusting layout pattern 408 and revised remedial connecting layout pattern 414 to be further away from each other, a revised CUT layout pattern 422 is introduced in place of merged CUT layout pattern 204 in order to allow an upper edge 414 a of revised remedial connecting layout pattern 414 to be shifted further away from the region corresponding to layout pattern 408.

The resulting conductive layout includes layout patterns 414 and 416 in place of layout patterns 404, 406, and 408, and a distance D₆ between layout pattern 414 and layout pattern 416 is in compliance with the spatial resolution requirement of the conductive layout. In some embodiments, if the distance D₆ between layout pattern 414 and layout pattern 416 is still not in compliance with the spatial resolution requirement of the conductive layout, a circuit engineer or a layout engineer of the circuit/layout of FIG. 4D is notified, and a manual inspection and revision of the circuit and/or the corresponding layout are performed.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method 500 of processing a gate electrode cutting (CUT) layout in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 5 will be illustrated in conjunction with the examples depicted in FIGS. 1A-4D. It is understood that additional operations may be performed before, during, and/or after the method 500 depicted in FIG. 5, and that some other processes may only be briefly described herein.

The process begins with operation 510, where a layout design usable for fabricating an integrated circuit (IC) is received. The layout design includes a gate electrode layout usable to fabricate gate electrode structures and an original gate electrode cutting (CUT) layout correspond to various carved-out portions of the gate electrode structures. In some embodiments, the layout design further includes an original conductive layer layout usable to fabricate a layer of conductive features above the gate electrode structures. In some embodiments, the gate electrode layout includes layout patterns such as layout patterns 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 in FIGS. 1A-2D and 4A-4D. In some embodiments, the original CUT layout includes CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 in FIG. 1A or CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 in FIG. 1B.

The process proceeds to operation 520, where two CUT layout patterns of the original CUT layout are selected for further processing. In one example as depicted in FIG. 1A, CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 are selected to be further processed according to various operations consistent with the method 500. In another example as depicted in FIG. 1B, CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 are selected to be further processed according to various operations consistent with the method 500.

The process proceeds to operation 530 to determine if the two selected CUT layout patterns are in compliance with a predetermined spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout. In some embodiments, the predetermined spatial resolution requirement includes a predetermined threshold distance. Thus, the two selected CUT layout patterns are determined to be in compliance with the predetermined spatial resolution requirement if a distance between the two selected CUT layout patterns is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold distance. In some embodiments, if the distance between the two selected CUT layout patterns is less than the predetermined threshold distance, the two selected CUT layout patterns are determined to be not in compliance with the predetermined spatial resolution requirement. For example, in some embodiments, operation 520 includes checking if a distance D₁ between CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 is less than the predetermined threshold distance. In some embodiments, operation 520 includes checking if a distance D₂ between CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 is less than the predetermined threshold distance.

In operation 530, the process is further branched into two different paths. If it is determined in operation 530 that the selected CUT layout patterns are in compliance with the spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout, the process proceeds to operation 540 to determine if all CUT layout patterns have been checked for their compliance with the spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout. If it is determined in operation 530 that the CUT layout patterns is not in compliance with the spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout, the process proceeds to operation 550 for further processes.

In operation 550, a merged CUT layout pattern is generated based on the selected CUT layout patterns and a stitching layout pattern connecting the selected CUT layout patterns. Based on the merged CUT layout pattern, a modified CUT layout is generated by replacing the selected CUT layout patterns with the merged CUT layout pattern. In one example as depicted in FIG. 2A, a merged CUT layout pattern 204 is generated by connecting CUT layout patterns 122 and 124 with stitching layout pattern 202. In another example as depicted in FIG. 2C, a merged CUT layout pattern 214 is generated by connecting CUT layout patterns 132 and 134 with stitching layout pattern 212.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in conjunction with FIG. 3A-3G, the stitching layout pattern usable in operation 550 has a shape including an I shape, such as stitching layout patterns 312 and 314; an L shape, such as stitching layout pattern 316; a Z shape, such as stitching layout pattern 318; an slanted I shape, such as stitching layout patterns 322 and/or 326; or a J shape, such as stitching layout pattern 324.

After operation 550, the process proceeds to operation 560, where a remedial connecting layout pattern is added to the conductive layer layout. The remedial connecting layout pattern corresponds to fabricating a conductive feature electrically connecting two portions of the gate electrode structure that are separated by the carved-out portion defined based on the stitching layout pattern. In one example as depicted in FIG. 2B, remedial connecting layout pattern 206 is added for electrically connecting portions of the gate electrode structure corresponding to regions 106 b and 106 c. In another example as depicted in FIG. 2D, remedial connecting layout pattern 216 is added for electrically connecting portions of the gate electrode structure corresponding to regions 106 b′ and 106 c′.

In some embodiments, after generating the remedial connecting layout pattern, operation 560 further includes checking if the remedial connecting layout pattern and other layout pattern of the conductive layer layout are in compliance with a predetermined spatial resolution requirement of the conductive layer layout. In some embodiments, if the inclusion of the remedial connecting layout pattern would render the conductive layer layout non-compliance with the spatial resolution requirement of the conductive layer layout, the process proceeds to operation 570 to notify a circuit designer and/or a layout designer the non-compliance of the remedial connecting layout pattern.

In some embodiments, operation 560 further includes adjusting layout patterns of the conductive layer layout to resolve the non-compliance of the predetermined spatial resolution requirement of the conductive layer layout. In some embodiments, an original conductive layout pattern and the remedial connecting layout pattern are merged to become a modified remedial connecting layout pattern in place of the conductive layout pattern, if electrically connecting the conductive features corresponding to the remedial connecting layout pattern and the original conductive layout pattern is consistent with a circuit schematic of the IC. For example as depicted in FIG. 4B, a modified remedial connecting layout pattern 412 is generated by merging the remedial connecting layout pattern 406 and ordinal conductive layout patterns 402 and 404. For another example as depicted in FIG. 4D, a modified remedial connecting layout pattern 414 is generated by merging the remedial connecting layout pattern 406 and ordinal conductive layout pattern 404.

In some embodiments, an original conductive layout pattern and the remedial connecting layout pattern are adjusted to be further away from each other, if electrically connecting the conductive features corresponding to the remedial connecting layout pattern and the original conductive layout pattern is inconsistent with the circuit schematic of the IC.

In one example as depicted in FIG. 4D, conductive layout pattern 408 is shifted further away from the region corresponding to remedial connecting layout pattern 406. Also, as depicted in FIG. 4D, modified remedial connecting layout pattern 414 is shaped to be further away from the region corresponding to conductive layout pattern 408. In some embodiments, in order to facilitate the adjustment of the shape of modified remedial connecting layout pattern 414, a shape of the merged CUT layout pattern 204 is further adjusted to become adjusted merged CUT layout pattern 422, which is further away from a region corresponding to the conductive layout pattern 408.

In some embodiments, if the additional adjustment measures as illustrated in conjunction with FIGS. 4B and 4D still fail to make the modified conductive layer layout to be in compliance with the spatial resolution requirement thereof, the process proceeds to operation 570 to notify a circuit designer and/or a layout designer the non-compliance of the remedial connecting layout pattern.

In operation 570, in some embodiments, after the circuit designer and/or the layout designer has been notified about the non-compliance of the remedial connecting layout pattern, the process stops and the circuit designer and/or the layout designer will manually revise the circuit schematic or the layout of the IC. In some embodiments, after the circuit designer and/or the layout designer has been notified about the non-compliance of the remedial connecting layout pattern, the process proceeds to operation 520 to check other CUT layout patterns, and the circuit designer and/or the layout designer will manually revise the circuit schematic or the layout of the IC after all CUT layout patterns have been processed according to operations 520, 530, and/or 540.

Moreover, in operation 540, the process determines if all CUT layout patterns have been checked for their compliance with the spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout. If it is determined in operation 540 that all CUT layout patterns has been checked, the process stops at block 580. If it is determined in operation 540 that one or more CUT layout patterns has not been checked, the process proceeds to operation 520. In some embodiments, operations 520, 530, 550, and 560 are thus performed repetitively on all CUT layout patterns of the CUT layout.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an integrated circuit (IC) designing system 600 in accordance with some embodiments. IC designing system 600 includes a first computer system 610, a second computer system 620, a networked storage device 630, and a network 640 connecting the first computer system 610, the second computer system 620, and the networked storage device 630. In some embodiments, one or more of the second computer system 620, the storage device 630, and the network 640 are omitted.

The first computer system 610 includes a hardware processor 612 communicatively coupled with a non-transitory, computer readable storage medium 614 encoded with, i.e., storing, a set of instructions 614 a, a circuit schematic 614 b, a circuit layout 614 c, a modified layout 614 d, or any intermediate data 614 e for executing the set of instructions 614 a. The processing unit 612 is electrically and communicatively coupled with the computer readable storage medium 614. The processing unit 612 is configured to execute the set of instructions 614 a encoded in the computer readable storage medium 614 in order to cause the computer 610 to be usable as an IC designing system, including functionalities such as checking CUT layout patterns, merging CUT layout patterns, or generating remedial connecting layout patterns consistent with the embodiments of FIGS. 1A-5.

In some embodiments, the set of instructions 614 a, the circuit schematic 614 b, the circuit layout 614 c, the modified layout 614 d, or the intermediate data 614 e are stored in a non-transitory storage medium other than storage medium 614. In some embodiments, some or all of the set of instructions 614 a, the circuit schematic 614 b, the circuit layout 614 c, the modified layout 614 d, or the intermediate data 614 e are stored in a non-transitory storage medium in networked storage device 630 or second computer system 620. In such case, some or all of the set of instructions 614 a, the circuit schematic 614 b, the circuit layout 614 c, the modified layout 614 d, or the intermediate data 614 e stored outside computer 610 is accessible by the processing unit 612 through the network 640.

In some embodiments, the processor 612 is a central processing unit (CPU), a multi-processor, a distributed processing system, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and/or a suitable processing unit.

In some embodiments, the computer readable storage medium 614 is an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, and/or a semiconductor system (or apparatus or device). For example, the computer readable storage medium 614 includes a semiconductor or solid-state memory, a magnetic tape, a removable computer diskette, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rigid magnetic disk, and/or an optical disk. In some embodiments using optical disks, the computer readable storage medium 614 includes a compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM), a compact disk-read/write (CD-R/W), and/or a digital video disc (DVD).

The computer system 610 further includes, in at least some embodiments, an input/output interface 616 and a display unit 617. The input/output interface 616 is coupled to the processor 612 and allows the circuit designer to manipulate the first computer system 610. In at least some embodiments, the display unit 617 displays the status of executing the set of instructions 614 a and, in at least some embodiments, provides a Graphical User Interface (GUI). In at least some embodiments, the display unit 617 displays the status of executing the set of instructions 614 a in a real time manner. In at least some embodiments, the input/output interface 616 and the display 617 allow an operator to operate the computer system 610 in an interactive manner.

In at least some embodiments, the computer system 610 also includes a network interface 618 coupled to the processor 612. The network interface 618 allows the computer system 610 to communicate with the network 640, to which one or more other computer systems are connected. The network interface includes wireless network interfaces such as BLUETOOTH, WIFI, WIMAX, GPRS, or WCDMA; or wired network interface such as ETHERNET, USB, or IEEE-1394.

In some embodiments, one or more of the features illustrated above in conjunction with FIGS. 1A-6 are usable in the examples illustrated in conjunction with FIGS. 7-14.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a switching circuit 700 in accordance with some embodiments. Switching circuit 700 includes a first node 712, a second node 714, a third node 716, a first P-type transistor 720, a first N-type transistor 730, a second P-type transistor 740, and a second N-type transistor 750. First P-type transistor 720 and first N-type transistor 730 form a first transmission gate between nodes 712 and 714. The first transmission gate is configured to electrically couple nodes 712 and 714 if control signal CTRL1 is logically high and control signal CTRL2 is logically low. Second P-type transistor 740 and second N-type transistor 750 form a second transmission gate between nodes 712 and 716. The second transmission gate is configured to electrically couple nodes 712 and 716 if control signal CTRL2 is logically high and control signal CTRL1 is logically low.

First P-type transistor 720 includes a gate 722, a first source or drain (also referred to as “source/drain” or “S/D”) terminal 724, and a second S/D terminal 726. Gate 722 is configured to receive control signal CTRL2. First S/D terminal 724 is electrically coupled with node 714. Second S/D terminal 726 is electrically coupled with node 712.

First N-type transistor 730 includes a gate 732, a first S/D terminal 734, and a second S/D terminal 736. Gate 732 is configured to receive control signal CTRL1. First S/D terminal 734 is electrically coupled with node 714 and the first S/D terminal 724 of transistor 720. Second S/D terminal 736 is electrically coupled with node 712 and the second S/D terminal 726 of transistor 720.

Second P-type transistor 740 includes a gate 742, a first S/D terminal 744, and a second S/D terminal 746. Gate 742 is configured to receive control signal CTRL1. First S/D terminal 744 is electrically coupled with node 716. Second S/D terminal 726 is electrically coupled with node 712 and the second S/D terminal 726 of transistor 720.

Second N-type transistor 750 includes a gate 752, a first S/D terminal 754, and a second S/D terminal 756. Gate 752 is configured to receive control signal CTRL2. First S/D terminal 754 is electrically coupled with node 716 and the first S/D terminal 744 of transistor 740. Second S/D terminal 756 is electrically coupled with node 712 and the second S/D terminal 746 of transistor 740.

FIG. 8 is a layout diagram of a portion of an example layout design 800 of the switching circuit 700 of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments. Layout design 800 includes a first oxide definition (OD) layout pattern 812; a second OD layout pattern 814; a set of layout patterns 822, 823, 824, 825, 826, and 828 extending along a direction Y for forming corresponding conductive features in a first conductive layer; a set of layout patterns 832, 834, and 836 extending along the direction Y for forming corresponding conductive features in a second conductive layer; a layout pattern 840 extending along a direction A for forming a corresponding conductive feature in a third conductive layer between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; and a set of layout patterns 852-857 extending along a direction X for forming corresponding conductive features in a fourth conductive layer over the first, second, and third conductive layers. Layout design 800 also includes a layout pattern 860 corresponding to forming a conductive feature extending along direction Y.

The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 823 is usable as the gate of first P-type transistor 720 in FIG. 7. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 824 is usable as the gate of first N-type transistor 730. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 825 is usable as the gate of second P-type transistor 740. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 826 is usable as the gate of second N-type transistor 750.

The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 832 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 812 are usable to form the S/D terminal 724 of transistor 720. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 832 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 814 are usable to form the S/D terminal 734 of transistor 730. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 834 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 812 are usable to form the S/D terminal 726 of transistor 720 and the S/D terminal 746 of transistor 740. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 834 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 814 are usable to form the S/D terminal 736 of transistor 730 and the S/D terminal 756 of transistor 750. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 836 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 812 are usable to form the S/D terminal 744 of transistor 740. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 836 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 814 are usable to form the S/D terminal 754 of transistor 750.

The conductive feature formed according to layout pattern 840 electrically connects gates fabricated according to layout patterns 825 and 824. Therefore, conductive feature formed according to layout pattern 840 corresponds to the signal path configured to receive control signal CTRL1 in FIG. 7. Layout pattern 840 extends along the direction A, and direction A and direction Y have an angle θ ranging from 20 degrees to 70 degrees. In some embodiments, layout pattern 840 corresponds to layout pattern 322 in FIG. 3E. In some embodiments, layout pattern 840 is replaced by a layout pattern corresponding to layout pattern 324 in FIG. 3F. In some embodiments, layout pattern 840 is replaced by a layout pattern corresponding to layout pattern 326 in FIG. 3G.

Layout design 800 further includes via layout patterns 872, 874, 876, 878, and 879 and 882, 884, and 886 corresponding to one or more of via plug layers. The via plugs fabricated based on via layout patterns 872, 874, 876, 878, and 879 and 882, 884, and 886 and the conductive features fabricated based on layout patterns 832-836, 840, and 852-856 together connected the transistor fabricated according to layout patterns 812, 814, and 823-826 to for a circuit as depicted in FIG. 7.

Layout pattern 872 is usable to form a via plug connecting features corresponding to layout patterns 823 and 853. Layout pattern 874 is usable to form a via plug connecting features corresponding to layout patterns 840 and 885. Layout pattern 876 is usable to form a via plug connecting features corresponding to layout patterns 826 and 856. Layout pattern 878 is usable to form a via plug connecting features corresponding to layout patterns 860 and 853. Layout pattern 879 is usable to form a via plug connecting features corresponding to layout patterns 860 and 856.

Layout pattern 882 is usable to form a via plug connecting features corresponding to layout patterns 834 and 854. Layout pattern 884 is usable to form a via plug connecting features corresponding to layout patterns 836 and 852. Layout pattern 886 is usable to form a via plug connecting features corresponding to layout patterns 832 and 857.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a resulting switching circuit 900 fabricated based the layout design of FIG. 8, taken along reference line B-B′, in accordance with some embodiments. Switching circuit 900 includes a substrate 910, an insulation layer 920, a polysilicon structure 932 fabricated according to layout pattern 824, a polysilicon structure 934 fabricated according to layout pattern 825, a conductive structure 940 fabricated according to layout pattern 840, a conductive structure 950 fabricated according to layout pattern 834, and conductive features 962, 964, and 966 fabricated according to layout patterns 855, 854, and 853. Switching circuit 900 further includes a via plug 972 fabricated according to layout patterns 874 and connecting conductive features 940 and 962; and a via plug 974 fabricated according to layout patterns 882 and connecting conductive features 950 and 964.

In some embodiments, the conductive features 962, 964, and 966 and other features (not shown) disposed above the conductive features 962, 964, and 966 are fabricated by a back-end-of-line (BEOL) process, and any feature below conductive features 962, 964, and 966 are fabricated by either a front-end-of-line (FEOL) process or a middle-end-of-line (MEOL) process.

In some embodiments, the first conductive layer corresponds to a polysilicon layer or a layer of metal gate structures. In some embodiments, the second conductive layer corresponds to a metal layer over OD regions, which is sometimes referred to as a MD layer. In some embodiments, the third conductive layer corresponds to a metal layer over polysilicon or gate structures, which is sometimes referred to as a MP layer. In some embodiments, the fourth conductive layer corresponds to a lowest metal layer fabricated by the BEOL process, which is sometimes referred to as a M1 layer.

FIG. 10 is a layout diagram of a portion of another example layout design 1000 of the switching circuit of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments. Components in FIG. 10 that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 8 are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is this omitted.

Compared with layout design 800, layout design 1000 does not have layout patterns 860 878, and 879. Instead, layout design 1000 includes a layout pattern 1010 extending along direction A for forming a conductive layer at the third conductive layer and electrically connecting the gates corresponding to layout patterns 823 and 826 through conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 822 and 856. Layout design 1000 also includes a via layout pattern 1020 for forming a via plug connecting conductive features corresponding to layout patterns 822 and 856.

FIG. 11 is a layout diagram of a portion of another example layout design 1100 of the switching circuit of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments. Components in FIG. 11 that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 10 are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is this omitted.

Compared with layout design 1000, layout design 1100 does not have layout pattern 874. Instead, layout design 1100 includes a via layout pattern 1110 for forming a via plug connecting conductive features corresponding to layout patterns 842 and 853.

FIG. 12 is a layout diagram of a portion of another example layout design 1200 of the switching circuit of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments. Components in FIG. 12 that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 10 are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is this omitted.

Compared with layout design 1000, layout design 1200 does not have layout pattern 840. Instead, layout design 1100 includes a layout pattern 1210 extending along a direction A′. Direction A′ and the direction Y have an angle θ′ ranging from 20 degrees to 70 degrees. Layout pattern 1210 is usable for fabricating a conductive feature in the third conductive layer to electrically connect conductive features corresponding to layout patterns 825 and 828. Layout design 1200 further includes a via layout pattern 1220 for forming a via plug connecting conductive features corresponding to layout patterns 1210 and 855.

FIG. 13 is a layout diagram of a portion of another example layout design 1300 of the switching circuit of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments. Components in FIG. 13 that are the same or similar to those in FIG. 12 are given the same reference numbers, and detailed description thereof is this omitted.

Compared with layout design 1200, layout design 1300 does not have layout pattern 882. Instead, layout design 1300 includes a via layout pattern 1310 for forming a via plug connecting conductive features corresponding to layout patterns 834 and 853.

FIG. 14 is a layout diagram of a portion of another example layout design 1400 of the switching circuit of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments.

Layout design 1400 includes a first OD layout pattern 1412; a second OD layout pattern 1414; a set of layout patterns 1421-1428 extending along direction Y for forming corresponding conductive features in a first conductive layer; a set of layout patterns 1431-1436 extending along the direction Y for forming corresponding conductive features in a second conductive layer; a layout pattern 1440 extending along a direction A′ for forming a corresponding conductive feature in a third conductive layer between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; and a set of layout patterns 1452-1457 extending along direction X for forming corresponding conductive features in a fourth conductive layer over the first, second, and third conductive layers. Layout design 1400 further includes layout patterns 1462 and 1464 corresponding to forming conductive features extending along direction X in a fifth conductive layer between the first and second conductive layers.

The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 1424 is usable as the gate of first P-type transistor 720 and the gate of second N-type transistor 750 in FIG. 7. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 1423 is usable as the gate of first N-type transistor 730. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 1426 is usable as the gate of second P-type transistor 740.

The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 1432 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 1412 are usable to form the S/D terminal 724 of transistor 720. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 1431 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 1414 are usable to form the S/D terminal 734 of transistor 730. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 1462 is usable to electrically connect the conductive features corresponding to layout patterns 1431 and 1432.

The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 1434 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 1412 are usable to form the S/D terminal 726 of transistor 720 and the S/D terminal 746 of transistor 740. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 1433 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 1414 are usable to form the S/D terminal 736 of transistor 730 and the S/D terminal 756 of transistor 750. The conductive features corresponding to layout patterns are electrically connected by the conductive feature corresponding to layout pattern 1454 through via plugs formed based on corresponding via layout patterns 1470.

The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 1435 and the OD region formed according to layout pattern 1414 are usable to form the S/D terminal 754 of transistor 750. The conductive feature fabricated according to layout pattern 1464 is usable to electrically connect the conductive features corresponding to layout patterns 1435 and 1436.

The conductive feature formed according to layout pattern 1440 electrically connects gates fabricated according to layout patterns 1426 and 1423 through one or more intermediate conductive features corresponding to layout patterns 1428 and 1456. Therefore, conductive feature formed according to layout pattern 1440 corresponds to the signal path configured to receive control signal CTRL1 in FIG. 7. Layout pattern 1440 extends along the direction A′, and direction A and direction Y have an angle θ′ ranging from 20 degrees to 70 degrees. In some embodiments, layout pattern 1440 corresponds to a mirror-image version of layout pattern 322 in FIG. 3E. In some embodiments, layout pattern 1440 is replaced by a layout pattern corresponding to layout pattern 324 in FIG. 3F. In some embodiments, layout pattern 1440 is replaced by a layout pattern corresponding to layout pattern 326 in FIG. 3G.

Layout design 1400 further includes other via layout patterns 1470 corresponding to one or more of via plug layers. The via plugs fabricated based on via layout patterns 1470 and the conductive features fabricated based on layout patterns 1428, 1431-1436, 1440, 1452-1457, 1462, and 1464 together connected the transistor fabricated according to layout patterns 1424, 1426, and 1423 to for a circuit as depicted in FIG. 7.

In accordance with one embodiment, a method of processing a gate electrode cutting (CUT) layout usable for fabricating an integrated circuit (IC) is disclosed. The method includes determining if a first CUT layout pattern and a second CUT layout pattern of the CUT layout are in compliance with a predetermined spatial resolution requirement. The first CUT layout pattern corresponds to a carved-out portion of a first gate electrode structure, and the second CUT layout pattern corresponds to a carved-out portion of a second gate electrode structure. If the first CUT layout pattern and the second CUT layout pattern are not in compliance with the predetermined spatial resolution requirement, a merged CUT layout pattern is generated based on the first CUT layout pattern, the second CUT layout pattern, and a stitching layout pattern to replace the first CUT layout pattern and the second CUT layout pattern in the CUT layout, and a remedial connecting layout pattern is added to a conductive layer layout usable for fabricating the IC. The stitching layout pattern corresponds to a carved-out portion of a third gate electrode structure. The remedial connecting layout pattern corresponds to fabricating a conductive feature electrically connecting two portions of the third gate electrode structure that are separated by the carved-out portion of the third gate electrode structure.

In accordance with another embodiment, an integrated circuit includes a plurality of gate electrode structures and a layer of conductive features over the plurality of gate electrode structures. The plurality of gate electrode structures extends along a first direction and has a predetermined spatial resolution measurable along a second direction. The plurality of gate electrode structures includes a first gate electrode structure having a first portion and a second portion separated by a first carved-out region. The layer of conductive features includes a first conductive feature. The first conductive feature is over the first carved-out region and electrically connects the first portion and the second portion of the first gate electrode.

In accordance with another embodiment, a circuit includes a first P-type transistor, a second P-type transistor, a first N-type transistor, a second N-type transistor, a first set of conductive features, a second set of conductive features, and a third set of conductive features. The first P-type transistor includes a gate; a first source/drain (S/D) terminal; and a second S/D terminal. The second P-type transistor includes a gate; a first S/D terminal the electrically coupled with the second S/D terminal of the first P-type transistor; and a second S/D terminal. The first N-type transistor includes a gate electrically coupled with the gate of the second P-type transistor; a first S/D terminal electrically coupled with the first S/D terminal of the first P-type transistor; and a second S/D terminal electrically coupled with the second S/D terminal of the first P-type transistor. The second NMOS transistor includes a gate electrically coupled with the gate of the first P-type transistor; a first S/D terminal electrically coupled with the first S/D terminal of the second P-type transistor; and a second S/D terminal electrically coupled with the second S/D terminal of the first P-type transistor. The first set of conductive features extends along a first direction in a first conductive layer. The first set of conductive features is configured as the gates of the first and second P-type transistors and the gates of the first and second N-type transistors. The second set of conductive features extending along the first direction in a second conductive layer. The second set of conductive features is configured as the first and second S/D terminals of the first and second P-type transistors and the first and second S/D terminals of the first and second N-type transistors. The third set of conductive features extends along a second direction in a third conductive layer between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. The third set of conductive features is configured as a part of a first conductive path electrically coupling two of the first set of conductive features.

The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions, and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. 

1. A method of processing a gate electrode cutting (CUT) layout usable for fabricating an integrated circuit (IC), comprising: determining if a first CUT layout pattern and a second CUT layout pattern of the CUT layout are in compliance with a predetermined spatial resolution requirement, the first CUT layout pattern corresponding to a carved-out portion of a first gate electrode structure, and the second CUT layout pattern corresponding to a carved-out portion of a second gate electrode structure; and if the first CUT layout pattern and the second CUT layout pattern are not in compliance with the predetermined spatial resolution requirement, then: generating a merged CUT layout pattern based on the first CUT layout pattern, the second CUT layout pattern, and a stitching layout pattern to replace the first CUT layout pattern and the second CUT layout pattern in the CUT layout, the stitching layout pattern corresponding to a carved-out portion of a third gate electrode structure; and adding a remedial connecting layout pattern to a conductive layer layout usable for fabricating the IC, the remedial connecting layout pattern corresponding to fabricating a conductive feature electrically connecting two portions of the third gate electrode structure that are separated by the carved-out portion of the third gate electrode structure.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining operation, the generating operation, and the adding operation are repetitively performed on all CUT layout patterns of the CUT layout.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the predetermined spatial resolution requirement comprises a predetermined threshold distance; and the determining if the first CUT layout pattern and the second CUT layout pattern are in compliance with the predetermined spatial resolution requirement comprises determining that the first CUT layout pattern and the second CUT layout pattern are not in compliance with the predetermined spatial resolution requirement if a distance between the first CUT layout pattern and the second CUT layout pattern is less than the predetermined threshold distance.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the stitching layout pattern has an I shape, an L shape, a Z shape, a slanted I shape, or a J shape.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the adding the remedial connecting layout pattern in the conductive layer layout comprises: generating a remedial connecting layout pattern configured to overlap regions corresponding to the two portions of the third gate electrode structure that are separated by the carved-out portion of the third gate electrode structure.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the adding the remedial connecting layout pattern in the conductive layer layout comprises: generating a tentative remedial connecting layout pattern configured to overlap regions corresponding to the two portions of the third gate electrode structure that are separated by the carved-out portion of the third gate electrode structure; determining if a conductive layout pattern of the conductive layer layout and the tentative remedial connecting layout pattern are in compliance with another predetermined spatial resolution requirement, wherein the conducive layout pattern corresponds to fabricating another conductive feature; if the conductive layout pattern and the tentative remedial connecting layout pattern are not in compliance with the another predetermined spatial resolution requirement, and if electrically connecting the another conductive feature and the conductive feature is consistent with a circuit schematic of the IC, then merging the conductive layout pattern and the tentative remedial connecting layout pattern to become the remedial connecting layout pattern in place of the conductive layout pattern; and if the conductive layout pattern and the tentative remedial connecting layout pattern are not in compliance with the another predetermined spatial resolution requirement, and if electrically connecting the another conductive feature and the conductive feature is not consistent with the circuit schematic of the IC, then adjusting the conductive layout pattern or the tentative remedial connecting layout pattern to be further away from each other and generating the remedial connecting layout pattern based on the tentative remedial connecting layout pattern after the adjusting operation.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the adjusting the conductive layout pattern or the tentative remedial connecting layout pattern to be further away from each other comprises: adjusting a shape of the merged CUT layout pattern to be further away from a region corresponding to the conductive layout pattern; and adjusting a shape of the tentative remedial connecting layout pattern to be further away from the conductive layout pattern.
 8. The method of claim 6, wherein the adjusting the conductive layout pattern or the tentative remedial connecting layout pattern to be further away from each other comprises: adjusting a position of the conductive layout pattern to be further away from the tentative remedial connecting layout pattern.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the first, second, and third gate electrode structures have a spatial resolution finer than the predetermined spatial resolution requirement of the CUT layout. 10-20. (canceled)
 21. A method of processing a gate electrode cutting (CUT) layout usable for fabricating an integrated circuit (IC), comprising: receiving a layout including a gate electrode layout and a CUT layout, wherein the CUT layout includes a first CUT layout pattern and a second CUT layout pattern, and a space between the first CUT layout pattern and the second CUT layout pattern is less than a predetermined spatial resolution requirement; introducing a stitching layout pattern into the CUT layout, wherein the stitching layout connects the first CUT layout pattern and the second CUT layout pattern; merging the first CUT layout pattern, the second CUT layout pattern, and the stitching layout pattern; and adding a remedial connecting layout pattern to a first conductive layer of the gate electrode layout based on the stitching layout pattern.
 22. The method of claim 21, further comprises generating a non-compliance notification if the remedial connecting layout pattern is not in compliance with another predetermined spatial resolution requirement of the first conductive layer.
 23. The method of claim 21, wherein at least one of the receiving, the introducing, or the merging are repetitively performed in an iterative manner until a CUT layout is in compliance with the predetermined spatial resolution requirement.
 24. The method of claim 21, wherein adding the remedial connecting layout pattern to the first conductive layer of the gate electrode layout comprises: determining if a conductive layout pattern of the first conductive layer layout and the remedial connecting layout pattern are in compliance with another predetermined spatial resolution requirement, wherein the conducive layout pattern corresponds to a fabrication of a conductive feature; merging the conductive layout pattern and the remedial connecting layout pattern if the conductive layout pattern and the remedial connecting layout pattern are not in compliance with the another predetermined spatial resolution requirement; and adjusting the conductive layout pattern or the remedial connecting layout pattern to be further away from each other if the conductive layout pattern and the remedial connecting layout pattern are not in compliance with the another predetermined spatial resolution requirement.
 25. The method of claim 21 further comprises: adding the remedial connecting layout pattern to a second conductive layer of the gate electrode layout based on the stitching layout pattern.
 26. The method of claim 24, wherein the merging the conductive layout pattern and the remedial connecting layout pattern and adjusting the conductive layout pattern or the remedial connecting layout pattern to be further away from each other is performed consistently with a circuit schematic of the IC.
 27. A method of adjusting a layout usable for using a multiple patterning process of an integrated circuit, comprising: receiving a first set of layout patterns, each layout pattern of the first set of layout patterns extending along a first direction and having a first predetermined spatial resolution along a second direction transverse to the first direction; receiving a second set of layout patterns, each layout pattern of the second set of layout patterns corresponding to a conductive layer of the integrated circuit and having a second predetermined spatial resolution; generating a third set of layout patterns, each layout pattern of the third set of patterns orthogonally overlapping at least one layout pattern of the first set of layout patterns and having a third predetermined spatial resolution; generating a fourth set of layout patterns, each layout pattern of the fourth set of layout patterns overlapping at least one layout pattern of the first set of layout patterns; and generating a fifth set of layout patterns, each layout pattern of the fifth set of layout patterns overlying at least one layout pattern of the third set of layout patterns, wherein the fifth set of layout patterns corresponds to the conductive layer of the integrated circuit.
 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the generating the fourth set of layout patterns comprises: merging two layout patterns of the third set of patterns, the two layout patterns of the third patterns are not in compliance with the third predetermined spatial resolution.
 29. The method of claim 27, wherein generating the fifth set of layout patterns comprises: extending at least one layout pattern of the fifth set of layout patterns to at least one layout pattern of the second layer, wherein the at least one layout pattern of the fifth set of layout patterns and the at least one layout pattern of the second layer are not in compliance with the second predetermined spatial resolution, wherein the at least one layout pattern of the fifth set of patterns and the at least one layout pattern of the second layer are consistent with a circuit schematic of the integrated circuit.
 30. The method of claim 27, wherein generating the fifth set of layout patterns comprises: shifting at least one layout pattern of the fifth set of layout patterns away from at least one layout pattern of the second layer, wherein the at least one layout pattern of the fifth set of layout patterns and the at least one layout pattern of the second layer are not in compliance with the second predetermined spatial resolution, wherein the at least one layout pattern of the fifth set of layout patterns and the at least one layout pattern of the second layer are not consistent with the circuit schematic of the integrated circuit.
 31. The method of claim 27, identifying the fifth set of layout patterns as a different layer of the integrated circuit from the first set of layout patterns. 